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Our Middle School program for Grades 5 through 8 encourages the development of responsible young men and women through a rigorous STEAM curriculum that emphasizes critical and independent thinking, while recognizing that these scholars have different interests, strengths, and learning styles.

The Centennial Academy middle grades emphasize applied STEAM integrated learning, through which scholars can demonstrate mastery of a subject by creating, and presenting, a research-based project that is driven by their own interest in a topic and allows them to work within the same parameters as real researchers. Our program is geared to meet the needs of our scholars, acknowledging and appreciating their requirement for structure and autonomy, as well as their desire for acceptance and success. Our strong Arts, athletics, and guidance programs reinforce our academics and support a climate where our middle school scholars thrive.

Our community service program, advisor system, and smaller class sizes reflect our commitment to developing middle school scholars’ sense of social responsibility. Scholars develop essential skills through exploration, inquiry, reflection, and community service and leave Grade 8 well-prepared for high school. On average, 97 percent of our graduates are accepted to their first-choice high school.

Reading Plus is a computer based reading program which utilizes similar strategies that scholars will encounter of the GA Milestones. Reading Plus is an age appropriate personalized reading education plan with text dependent questions, contains writing prompts with every story, and provides students a choice of a cross curricular connection. Reading Plus provides data on each scholar that will be utilized to build reading fluency, comprehension, and reading stamina.Engage New York

Engage NY was developed in 2008. Engage NY contains modules which include authentic reading materials which are aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. Engage NY contains a curriculum which is going to help "ground" teaching practices because it has the following components: Closed Reads, Embedded Writing, Culturally Responsive and Authentic Texts, Built in Curriculum Map, Notes for SWD/ELL for each lesson, Supporting Materials (Anchor Charts/Activity Sheets), and Core Competency Lessons.

Eureka Math is a cognitive based math program that not only teaches scholars the process, but how the process works. The Eureka Math curriculum is presented to scholars through modules for each grade. Each module contains lessons which are aligned to the grade level Georgia Standards of Excellence. Every lesson within each module provides guided and independent practice opportunities. The Eureka Math curriculum has Mid-Module and End of Module summative assessments already built in.

With new demands for science literacy in the workplace, teachers are preparing today’s scholars to be tomorrow’s innovators. HMH Science Dimensions’ built-in support and unique lesson structure enables students to learn through self-directed exploration, analysis, application, and explanation—just like scientists. At the middle school level, 12 topical modules (write-in texts plus full digital editions) covering Life, Earth & Space, Physical Science, and Engineering can be matched to a district’s curriculum.

Scholars in grades 5 through 7 will complete a standards based classroom curriculum with an online component (Studies Weekly) which is aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. The Social Studies curriculum will utilize Units of Study to present the following curriculum:

Reading Plus is a computer based reading program which utilizes similar strategies that scholars will encounter of the GA Milestones. Reading Plus is an age appropriate personalized reading education plan with text dependent questions, contains writing prompts with every story, and provides students a choice of a cross curricular connection. Reading Plus provides data on each scholar that will be utilized to build reading fluency, comprehension, and reading stamina.Engage New York

Engage NY was developed in 2008. Engage NY contains modules which include authentic reading materials which are aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. Engage NY contains a curriculum which is going to help "ground" teaching practices because it has the following components: Closed Reads, Embedded Writing, Culturally Responsive and Authentic Texts, Built in Curriculum Map, Notes for SWD/ELL for each lesson, Supporting Materials (Anchor Charts/Activity Sheets), and Core Competency Lessons.

Eureka Math is a cognitive based math program that not only teaches scholars the process, but how the process works. The Eureka Math curriculum is presented to scholars through modules for each grade. Each module contains lessons which are aligned to the grade level Georgia Standards of Excellence. Every lesson within each module provides guided and independent practice opportunities. The Eureka Math curriculum has Mid-Module and End of Module summative assessments already built in.

With new demands for science literacy in the workplace, teachers are preparing today’s scholars to be tomorrow’s innovators. HMH Science Dimensions’ built-in support and unique lesson structure enables students to learn through self-directed exploration, analysis, application, and explanation—just like scientists. At the middle school level, 12 topical modules (write-in texts plus full digital editions) covering Life, Earth & Space, Physical Science, and Engineering can be matched to a district’s curriculum.

Scholars in grades 5 through 7 will complete a standards based classroom curriculum with an online component (Studies Weekly) which is aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. The Social Studies curriculum will utilize Units of Study to present the following curriculum:

Reading Plus is a computer based reading program which utilizes similar strategies that scholars will encounter of the GA Milestones. Reading Plus is an age appropriate personalized reading education plan with text dependent questions, contains writing prompts with every story, and provides students a choice of a cross curricular connection. Reading Plus provides data on each scholar that will be utilized to build reading fluency, comprehension, and reading stamina.Engage New York

Engage NY was developed in 2008. Engage NY contains modules which include authentic reading materials which are aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. Engage NY contains a curriculum which is going to help "ground" teaching practices because it has the following components: Closed Reads, Embedded Writing, Culturally Responsive and Authentic Texts, Built in Curriculum Map, Notes for SWD/ELL for each lesson, Supporting Materials (Anchor Charts/Activity Sheets), and Core Competency Lessons.

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Eureka Math is a cognitive based math program that not only teaches scholars the process, but how the process works. The Eureka Math curriculum is presented to scholars through modules for each grade. Each module contains lessons which are aligned to the grade level Georgia Standards of Excellence. Every lesson within each module provides guided and independent practice opportunities. The Eureka Math curriculum has Mid-Module and End of Module summative assessments already built in.

With new demands for science literacy in the workplace, teachers are preparing today’s scholars to be tomorrow’s innovators. HMH Science Dimensions’ built-in support and unique lesson structure enables students to learn through self-directed exploration, analysis, application, and explanation—just like scientists. At the middle school level, 12 topical modules (write-in texts plus full digital editions) covering Life, Earth & Space, Physical Science, and Engineering can be matched to a district’s curriculum.

Scholars in grades 5 through 7 will complete a standards based classroom curriculum with an online component (Studies Weekly) which is aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. The Social Studies curriculum will utilize Units of Study to present the following curriculum:

Reading Plus is a computer based reading program which utilizes similar strategies that scholars will encounter of the GA Milestones. Reading Plus is an age appropriate personalized reading education plan with text dependent questions, contains writing prompts with every story, and provides students a choice of a cross curricular connection. Reading Plus provides data on each scholar that will be utilized to build reading fluency, comprehension, and reading stamina.Engage New York

Engage NY was developed in 2008. Engage NY contains modules which include authentic reading materials which are aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. Engage NY contains a curriculum which is going to help "ground" teaching practices because it has the following components: Closed Reads, Embedded Writing, Culturally Responsive and Authentic Texts, Built in Curriculum Map, Notes for SWD/ELL for each lesson, Supporting Materials (Anchor Charts/Activity Sheets), and Core Competency Lessons.

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Eureka Math is a cognitive based math program that not only teaches scholars the process, but how the process works. The Eureka Math curriculum is presented to scholars through modules for each grade. Each module contains lessons which are aligned to the grade level Georgia Standards of Excellence. Every lesson within each module provides guided and independent practice opportunities. The Eureka Math curriculum has Mid-Module and End of Module summative assessments already built in.

With new demands for science literacy in the workplace, teachers are preparing today’s scholars to be tomorrow’s innovators. HMH Science Dimensions’ built-in support and unique lesson structure enables students to learn through self-directed exploration, analysis, application, and explanation—just like scientists. At the middle school level, 12 topical modules (write-in texts plus full digital editions) covering Life, Earth & Space, Physical Science, and Engineering can be matched to a district’s curriculum.

Scholars in grades 5 through 7 will complete a standards based classroom curriculum with an online component (Studies Weekly) which is aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence. The Social Studies curriculum will utilize Units of Study to present the following curriculum:

5th - English Language Arts Instructor
Ms. Micaela CopelandEducation - Mercer University Masters in Early Childhood Education, Completing Ed.S in June of 2018Teaching Experience - 2 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Reading Endorsement completed Spring 2018
This will be my third year teaching at Centennial Academy. After spending two years teaching fourth grade, I am excited to join the middle school team. I know that it will be a great year of fun and learning!

Education - Wilmington University- Masters in EducationTeaching Experience - 9 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - CPR Certified, Middle Grades Math endorsement 4th-8th, Special Education CertificationAs one of the newest members to the Centennial family, I am excited to share my knowledge and love for students to help them achieve their greatest potential. My favorite quote "If it is to be, it is up to me" by William H. Johnsen

5th - Social Studies Instructor
Mr. Michael CoxEducation - Georgia State University- Ed.S in Educational LeadershipTeaching Experience - 8 years
I am excited to be transitioning to the Middle School Academy, as a 5th Grade Teacher. It brings me great joy to know that I will directly impact student growth and learning at Centennial.

5th Grade DES Instructor -
Ms. Keisha Patterson Education - Georgia State University- BBATeaching Experience - 7 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Teach for America Corp Member, Special Education Certification, ESOL Certificate, Online Teaching Certificate, CPR Certified
I am very excited to be joining Centennial Academy for the 2018-2019 school year! Their commitment to excellence amongst the students and staff along with their focus on a STEAM education for all students is why I chose to be a part of the Centennial Academy community.

6th - English Language Arts Instructor
Ms. Tamara GordonEducation - University of New Haven - Master of Science EducationTeaching Experience - 11 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - 6-12 Behavioral Science, History, Political Science, Geography, Economics and P-8 Special Education Reading, English Language Arts, and Social Studies
I am originally from Connecticut and I am excited to be a part of Centennial Academy to aid in the growth and development of fantastic Legends.

6th - Science Instructor
Ms. Brooke RoseEducation - Kennesaw State University- M.Ed. in Instructional TechnologyTeaching Experience - 5 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Early Childhood Education, Gifted In-Field, Science, ELA, Math and Social Studies - Middle Grades
I am very excited to be returning to Centennial Academy next year. I look forward to exposing the scholars to the wonderful world of science!

6th - Mathematics InstructorMr. Reginald PriceEducation - American Intercontinental University - Masters of Information TechnologyTeaching Experience - 15 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Mathematics, Grades 4-9, and Interrelated Special Ed. 4-9
I have been a passionate Educator for 15 years, but I also share a love for music. My alter ego, DJ Side E'Efecz, has been in existence for 12 years providing music for numerous school dances, weddings and birthday celebrations. I also serve as a Sound Engineer for my church, experienced in manipulating audio systems to produce quality and enjoyable sound.

6th - Social Studies InstructorMr. Allan HendersonEducation - Morehouse College Business Management with a minor in Finance Kaplan University Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource ManagementTeaching Experience - 13 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - CPR Certified; Middle Grades Social Science (4-8); Middle Grades ELA (4-8)
An interesting fact about me is, I have traveled outside the country six times. My two favorite places I have visited are Beijing, China and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I looking forward to next school year at Centennial Academy because the communities/families we serve are some of the best in the district. CA is truly a gem and I am excited about empowering the young minds of our future leaders and heroes of the next generation!

6th Grade DSE Instructor
Ms. Andrea LeslieEducation - Cambridge College - M.Ed. in EducationTeaching Experience - 13 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Middle Grades Math Certified, Reading K-12 ertified, Special Education Highly Qualified, Special Education Math Certified K-12.
I am extremely excited about joining the staff of Centennial Academy. I am coming from an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program environment where I have worked to show student growth every year as a teacher.

6-8th Grade DSE Associate Instructor -
Ms. Elle HollandEducation - North Carolina Central University- B.A Psychology (Adolescent Studies)Teaching Experience - 2 yearsCertifications/Endorsements -Spec. Edu. Training, Tutoring Endorsement.
I am new to Centennial and it truly feels like home. Coming to work every day is a pleasure and I feel honored to be able to positively impact the youth everyday!

7th - English Language Arts Instructor
Ms. Shannon WoodardEducation- Arkansas State University- Ed.S in PrincipalshipTeaching Experience - 7 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - CPR CertifiedCentennial Academy is a place where I will bring me child when he is older. Not only is it a nurturing environment, but the teachers are exceptional and the scholars not only learn inside the classrooms, but are exposed outside the classes as well. I love teaching Centennial Heroes, I couldn't be apart of a better school!

7th - Science Instructor
Ms. Adele PollardEducation - Western Connecticut State UniversityTeaching Experience - 24 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Grades K-8; Gifted and ELL Endorsement
I am excited about joining the Middle School team as a science instructor! Over the years, my career has provided me with many opportunities to indulge my love of science in formal and informal learning environments and I look forward to teaching and sharing my excitement for science with our scholars.

I am excited about teaching students how to think and act creatively, how to value human life, and are able to make discerning decisions. Centennial Academy is the place where we can foster freedom and responsibility within the classrooms. Everyone should be ecstatic to be here!

Performing Arts Instructor -
Ms. Summer M. BlackmonEducation - Mercer University, Master of Arts in Teaching, Early Childhood EducationTeaching Experience - 12 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - T-5 Certification Level, Math and Reading Endorsement
Summer is excited to return to Centennial Academy and to provide performance opportunities, field trips, master classes, workshops, and collaborations with artists-in-residence in the 2018-2019 school year.
She is a classically trained dancer and has performed with professional companies since she was 11. Under her leadership, the Performing Arts Department has delivered outstanding junior Broadway musicals such as The Lion King KIDS and Aladdin Jr. to the Centennial Academy Community. She has directed and co-wrote "Heroes Today, Legends Tomorrow", Black History Program, 2015, and "The Music, The Movement", Black History Program, 2016.

Band Instructor -
Ms. Betsy Stuart Education - University of South Carolina - Masters in Music EducationTeaching Experience - 15 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - Music, Early childhood, K-5 scienceMy favorite thing to do outside of work is travel, and during the 2006-2007 school year, I taught at the American School of Milan in Italy. It was a great opportunity to see some of Europe, and to meet and work with people from around the world.. I'm looking forward to returning to Centennial for my tenth year this fall. We are a unique community, and I really enjoy being part of what we are becoming.

Education - Georgia State University B.A Foreign LanguageTeaching Experience - 11 yearsCertifications/Endorsements - ESOL Endorsement, Bachelor in Science Minor in Education (Complutense University of Madrid, SPAIN). 2018-2019 will be my 16th year at Centennial ! I am very passionate about teaching not only Spanish but the cultures associated with the language. I teach my scholars the importance of learning about global and intercultural issues as well as to understand and appreciate different perspectives and worldviews.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Scholars are expected to be present and on time to school in accordance with the provision of the Georgia Compulsory Attendance Law (O.C.G.A. 202690.1, et seq.) and Centennial Academy Policy. Scholars who are absent or tardy miss valuable instructional time and other important school activities and are less likely to master those skills, concepts, and principles needed for success. Excessive unexcused absences and/or truancy may lead to legal action against the parent/guardian in addition to a review of the student’s enrollment status.

When a scholar is absent, he/she must bring a note to school signed by the parent/legal guardian or physician stating the reason for the absence. The note must be given to the scholars homeroom/1st period teacher. An excused absence does not exempt a student from being marked absent. An excused absence will require the teacher to provide the student with make-up work upon request. An excused absence may prevent the school from seeking legal action should the scholar miss 10 or more days. If a parent fails to comply with the attendance policy, a referral to the Centennial Academy Attendance Review Board will be made.

At Centennial Academy, the school day begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. All scholars are required to report to school and all classes daily on time every day. On time scholars are present in their classroom ready to receive instruction at 8:00 am. Any scholar who arrives to class after 8:00 a.m. is considered to be tardy and will be recorded as such. When a scholar is tardy to school, they must be escorted to the main office by their parent to receive a tardy slip. Attendance will be closely monitored and parents of scholars who are tardy for school or class more than three times will be contacted by a school administrator.

In order to manage and maintain optimal scholar attendance, Centennial Academy will use both positive reinforcement and progressive discipline measures to address tardiness and absenteeism. Positive incentives will be awarded to students who maintain good attendance over specified periods of time. At the same time, the progressive discipline policy outlined below will be used.

*Please note, acceptable attendance, behavior, and grades are required in order for scholars to remain eligible for enrollment.

The Counseling Department provides support to scholars, families, faculty, and staff in a number of capacities. We advocate for scholar success in three primary areas, according to the ASCA National Model, which includes counseling in personal and social, academic, and career development.